I haven't had one but I've read of some long-term side effects with ablations (various types) including chronic cramping type pain and a bad odor that hangs on long after the procedure. Since the uterus continues to try to build the lining but can't since it's scarred, this probably explains the pain. Also, you can still get pregnant after an ablation but it's risky. I did a search for "pubmed balloon ablation and it brought up a number of links. This one http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12971146 says "Less than 60% of women reported satisfaction with balloon endometrial ablation, and 40% underwent hysterectomy within 1 year of it."

Have you tried a number of meds to try to manage the bleeding? There are hormonal and non-hormonal options. Even NSAID's (OTC and Rx) reduce bleeding. Tranexamic acid (Lysteda) is another non-hormonal med and is usually fairly effective. It requires a prescription. And of course there are the hormonal options.

I was afraid to try lysteda, have you tried it?

I haven't tried Lysteda but I'd personally try a med before a procedure. At least you can stop a med if you have bad side effects. There's no going back with a procedure. I had a hysterectomy and would definitely not recommend one (except for confirmed cancer).

I did not have that procedure. I would always look for any other options before having anything surgical done to me.
Blackstrap Molasses (unsulfered) is supposed to work for heavy menstrual bleeding. Check out the webside "earthclinic.com" where people post about natural remedies and their experiences. I love that side and I do take the Blackstrap Molasses also, not regular but right before I supposed to have a period.

Here is one of the posts from earthclinic, there are many more positive reports on how the Blackstrap Molasses helped them.

YEA] 12/08/2007: Samantha from Reno, NV: "I tried using blackstrap molasses for a extremely heavy period with clots and severe cramps. I have been having the problem for over two years and have been to the doctor a few times to see what could be done about this problem. The doctor advised me to go on birth control pills which I did not want to do. I found this website and thought there is no way this could work but I'm going to try it. I started using the BSM about two weeks ago. I have definitely noticed with this period that it is lighter and I can't believe I'm hardly have any clots and no "flooding" this time. Also cramping is minimal this time. I'm going to keep up the treatment and I will let you all know my progress. I'm ecstatic! Thank You EC!"

Not sure if what I had is what you are talking about- I had an endometrial ablation. It was described to me by my doctor as having my entire uterine lining cauterized using a roller ball laser.
I also had a couple of fibroids removed at the same time he called that myomectomy. Well I know I spelled it wrong but it sounds something like that LOL.

Anyway I got great success. For a year I had such heavy periods I became anemic. They lasted around 10 days. I bled so heavy I couldn't get out of the shower and get a pad between my legs fast enough not to leave a puddle of blood on the floor. I had lots of clots too. Not sure why I suffered like that for a year without saying something to the doctor. I waited until my annual exam.

I was on the pill at the time and still had periods that heavy. After the procedure I went back to having one normal bleed day and a couple of light days every month.

You are asleep during the procedure and for me there was 0 recovery time. I had it in the morning and went out to lunch with my husband when it was all over.

I wish you all the best.

Thank you for the positive results on the ablation. I went to dr and I am so emotionally out of sorts we will revisit the ablation in six months and see if I am more stable mentally. I'm not anemic and all blood work came back fine. I did order the blackstrap mollasses. ugh, second day. It is strong!!!! and kind of yucky but I'm gonna give it a shot!!

Cloudypearl, I put my molasses in a cup of hot water and drink it like a tea, that way it does not taste bad, I don't think I could swallow it just like it comes out of the bottle. I know it helps with my periods; wish they would just go away but no every month or so she shows up again even my gyno said I should not have any more periods because of my hormone levels. Hope it helps you. There is a lot of good info on earthclinic if you are interested in natural remedies.

I will try the hot water in the am. I was pouring it into a teaspoon like Mary poplins. Lol. My husband is trying it too for joint pain in his hands and his gray hair. Will keep you posted on that one!!

I have also had an endometrial ablation. It was a very successful surgery. I quit having my periods all together. Best surgery ever in my books. I also had very little recovery time.

I have been wanting to get this procedure, but I am scared.

Those that had it that are active on this thread please sent me a message if you would like to chat in detail about your experience, or post it here so we can all see.

I had the abolition procedure after 14 months of a heavy period evryday my period stopped completley that was exactly 12 months ago and havent looked back i do have a slight cramp each month no bleeding very happy with the results :)
net

Endometrial aboltion is what i had sorry i couldnt think what it was called :)